High Court Welcomes New Judge

By Alfred Pagepitu

The High Court of Solomon Islands has formally welcomed its newest judge, Her Ladyship Justice Emma Ohukeni-Ma’aramo Garo, during a ceremonial sitting in Honiara today.

Justice Garo, a former Public Solicitor, has held key judicial roles, including Magistrate, Deputy Chief Magistrate, and the first female Chief Magistrate of the High Court.

She has also served as Resident Magistrate in Nauru, reflecting her extensive local and regional legal experience.

At the ceremony, Chief Justice Sir Albert Palmer congratulated Justice Garo and acknowledged the support of her family.

“I wish to offer my warm and sincere congratulations to Her Ladyship and to thank her for accepting the call to leadership and service at the High Court bench,” he said.

He added, “We are not merely welcoming a new judge; we are integrating a jurist of profound experience, a leader of proven reform, and a dedicated servant of justice for the people of the Solomon Islands.”

Justice Garo formally announced her appointment before the Chief Justice, confirming she had received her commission from the Governor-General under Section 78(2) of the Constitution, effective from the date she assumed duty.

“I have subscribed to the oaths as required by an Act of Parliament and now present the commission to Your Lordship,” she said.

Sir Albert praised Justice Garo’s career achievements, including her work to reduce case backlogs, introduce second court sittings, and strengthen access to justice in provincial courts.

“Justice Garo arrives at this court not as a theoretician, but as a proven architect of efficiency and access to justice. Her appointment will strengthen and elevate the judiciary in our country,” he said.

He also highlighted the principles of justice, empathy, and continuous learning as key responsibilities for judges. “

“Your decisions will have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and the integrity of our legal system. Approach each case with an open mind and a deep sense of responsibility.”

The Chief Justice further encouraged collaboration with fellow judges while maintaining independence in decision-making.

“Never underestimate the value of shared wisdom. Judging can sometimes be a lonely job, but your fellow judges are always available to provide guidance.”

“Let your judgments be guided by the law and your conscience, free from external pressures or influences.”

“I accept that the road ahead will bring challenges. I pledge to learn from you, to work with you, and to serve with you in the national judiciary,”

Justice Garo said. She also expressed gratitude to her children and sisters for their encouragement, acknowledging the importance of family support in her career.

Justice said that with a call for divine guidance: “May God continue to bless and guide us all. He is our help, our guide, and our strength. May God bless Solomon Islands.”

Justice Garo, born on 5 October 1974, hails from Raovalu Village, West Guadalcanal, and Malaita Province.  She completed her law degree at the University of Papua New Guinea in 2000 and passed her bar exams later that year.

The ceremony, which began with a scripture reading and prayer led by the Dean of St. Barnabas Provincial Cathedral, the Very Reverend Rupert Heckel, was attended by Deputy Chief Justice, High Court judges, the Attorney General, President of the Solomon Islands Bar Association, magistrates, legal professionals, and family members of Justice Garo.

ENDS//